Archive · 26 May 2025
IMD Restricts Weather Data Access Due to Cyber Security Concerns
India's weather service, IMD, is making it harder for people to see its weather data.
They're worried about cyberattacks after suspicious activity from Pakistan and Afghanistan.
They've added security like passwords.
This makes it difficult for weather enthusiasts and bloggers.
Many of them used IMD data for weather updates.
Some are concerned because other countries share this information openly.
They now have to depend on international data.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) is enhancing its cybersecurity measures.
IMD has implemented firewalls and password-based access control to protect its data.
Access to data from automatic weather stations (AWS) and RAPID is now restricted.
Weather enthusiasts and bloggers express concerns about the reduced data access.
The decision follows suspicious data access attempts from Pakistan and Afghanistan.
- Who
- The India Meteorological Department (IMD), weather enthusiasts, and potential cyber attackers.
- What
- IMD restricted access to its weather data, implementing new security measures.
- When
- Following recent escalation in India-Pakistan tensions.
- Where
- India, specifically the IMD offices.
- Why
- To prevent cyber attacks and protect core weather data platforms.
IMD's Position
Weather Enthusiasts' Perspective
Data Accessibility
IMD's Position
Prioritize data security and prevent potential cyber attacks, even if it means restricting access.
Weather Enthusiasts' Perspective
The data should be made freely accessible to improve weather analysis and public understanding.
- Organization Involved
- India Meteorological Department (IMD)
- Security Measures
- Firewalls and Password-Based Access
- Restricted Data Sources
- Automatic weather stations (AWS) and RAPID
- Location of IMD office
- Hyderabad
- IP addresses with suspicious access attempts
- Pakistan and Afghanistan